Sinn Féin - On Your Side

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers' Rights Arthur Morgan today expressed
concern at the Comhairle report that indicated there continues to be
widespread abuse of the work permit system and a growing number of workers
are unable to assert their rights in the workplace because of an appalling
information deficit. Deputy Morgan called on the Government to launch a
public information campaign to make workers aware of their rights, while
urging them to join trade unions, saying that a non-unionised employee was
as good as walking around with a 'kick-me' sign on his back.

The Louth TD said: "It is deeply worrying that workers throughout the state
are finding it increasingly difficult to assert their rights in the
workplace. Sinn Féin has consistently said that the state has an obligation
to ensure that workers' rights are upheld, and should put in place such
inspection and enforcement structures as are required to vindicate those
rights.

"The fact that there has been a 40,000 increase in employment queries since
2001 illustrates this point perfectly. If this Government were really
addressing the problems faced by workers throughout the state we would be
seeing a manifest decrease in these numbers. Instead we are seeing the
opposite. Many workers, especially those new to the country, are vulnerable
to exploitation because they do not know their rights. Sinn Féin is calling
on this government to raise awareness among existing workers and those
entering the workforce, whether they are young workers or migrant workers.

"A major Workers' Rights Awareness public information campaign on radio,
television, and print media and in public spaces could go along way to
familiarising the workforce of their rights and should be initiated by the
Government. But the best way for a worker to be informed about his or her
rights, and ensure they are protected, is to join a union. If you work for a
living, you should be in a union. It is as simple as that. A non-unionised
employee might as well be walking around with a 'kick-me' sign on his back."